The Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), in collaboration with the World Bank Group, successfully concluded a landmark two-day Travel & Tourism Symposium on June 10-11, 2024. Themed “Building the Nation Economy through Tourism” brought together key stakeholders to discuss sustainable growth strategies for Pakistan’s burgeoning tourism sector. The symposium attracted over 20 foreign delegates and more than 400 national and international tourism professionals, industry experts, and decision-makers, all convening to share ideas and develop a sustainable growth roadmap for Pakistan’s tourism industry.
The symposium focused on several critical areas, including mobilizing tourism investments by exploring models to boost tourism receipts and incorporating sustainable green practices. Additionally, it addressed the export of skilled labor to generate remittances and strengthen tourism value chains. The event also examined successful public-private partnership (PPP) models to drive infrastructure development and industry growth.
Key event highlights included panel discussions featuring industry experts and policymakers. Networking opportunities were abundant, fostering collaborations and partnerships within the tourism industry. Inspirational keynote addresses were delivered by eminent international and local industry experts.
A tourism expo was also held to showcase Pakistan’s rich tourism potential and create linkages among industry stakeholders. The event aimed to explore critical facets of the tourism sector, focusing on green investments, improving connectivity, responsible tourism, and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage.
Keynote Speakers and Government Commitment
The opening ceremony featured the Chairman ‘Prime Minister’s Youth Programme’ Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan. Addressing the participants, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan highlighted Pakistan’s diverse culture and natural beauty, emphasizing the government’s commitment to developing the tourism sector for socio-economic development and employment generation. He underscored the potential to engage youth in the tourism and hospitality workforce and stressed the importance of formulating policies to offer quality education, vocational training, and skilled employment in the sector.
Closing Remarks and Future Directions
In his closing remarks, Minister Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan announced plans to ease visa policies and the requirement for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for international tourists to help boost tourism. The symposium yielded actionable insights, strategic frameworks, and practical policy recommendations aimed at fostering sustainable growth in Pakistan’s tourism industry.
Organized by PTDC and the World Bank Pakistan, the Travel & Tourism Symposium has charted a transformative path for the future of Pakistan’s tourism sector. Through collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to green investments, Pakistan is now poised to unlock its vast tourism potential and drive significant socio-economic growth.
